Despite widespread public opposition and concerns from external experts, President Donald Trump's plan for a massive ballroom at the White House has received approval from the Commission of Fine Arts. The proposed 8,400-square-meter structure, which would be the most significant alteration to the White House complex in decades, was unanimously greenlit by the commission, which Trump has populated with loyalists. While a federal judge is still considering a potential injunction, the White House is pushing for swift approval from a second federal body, the National Capital Planning Commission, aiming to begin construction in April. Critics argue the project is too large, overshadows the historic building, and raises questions about donor influence, especially given that over 99 percent of public comments opposed the plan.